Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Atalay Mulu Fentie, Yidnekachew Degefaw, Getachew Asfaw, Wendosen Shewarega, Mengistab Woldearegay, Ephrem Abebe, Gebremedhin Beedemariam Gebretekle
Summary: This study aimed to assess antibiotics use and healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) in Ethiopian public hospitals. The findings revealed a high prevalence of antibiotic use, mostly empiric, which has practical and policy implications for strengthening Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASPs) and promoting rational antibiotics use.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Petros Ioannou, Eirini Astrinaki, Efsevia Vitsaxaki, Emmanouil Bolikas, Despoina Christofaki, Apostolia Salvaraki, Eirini Lagoudaki, Eleni Ioannidou, Stamatis Karakonstantis, Stamatina Saplamidou, Christos Cleovoulou, Eleni Stamataki, Stavroula Ilia, Argyri Messaritaki, Michaela Avdi, Anthoula Chalkiadaki, Styliani Papathanasaki, Chrisanthi Markopoulou, Evagelia Magouli, Maria Moustaki, Vasileia-Athina Kataxaki, Panagiotis Skevakis, Nikolaos Spernovasilis, Georgios Chamilos, Diamantis P. Kofteridis
Summary: The prevalence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and antimicrobial use among hospitalized patients in Crete, Greece was found to be similar to the national levels despite the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the prevalence of HAIs and antimicrobial use remains high, emphasizing the need for adequate infection control and antimicrobial stewardship interventions.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
N. Grae, A. Singh, D. Jowitt, A. Flynn, E. Mountier, G. Clendon, R. Barratt, B. Gibson, C. Williams, S. A. Roberts, A. J. Morris
Summary: This study aims to determine the epidemiology of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), prevalence of medical devices, and microbiology of HAIs in adults in public hospitals in New Zealand. The findings revealed that 6.6% of the surveyed patients had HAIs, with surgical site infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections being the most common types. Device use accounted for 16% of the HAIs. The study highlights the importance of implementing proven multi-modal prevention interventions to reduce the burden of HAIs.
JOURNAL OF HOSPITAL INFECTION
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
P. Barbadoro, J. Dolcini, C. Fortunato, D. Mengarelli detto Rinaldini, E. Martini, M. G. Gioia, D. Mengoni, M. M. D'Errico
Summary: The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control conducted a survey in 14 acute care hospitals to analyze the prevalence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as well as associated factors. The survey revealed a high prevalence of HAIs and antibiotic consumption, emphasizing the need for improved infection control measures.
JOURNAL OF HOSPITAL INFECTION
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Yonghong Xiao, Xing Xin, Yunbo Chen, Qing Yan, China PPS team
Summary: The purpose of this study is to assess antimicrobial prescribing and resistance in general hospitals and clinical specialties in China using a point prevalence survey (PPS), and compare them with global data. The study found that the overall prevalence of antibiotic use was 37.00% in Chinese hospitals, with high use of antibiotic prophylaxis in surgical patients. The study also revealed low prescribing quality, lack of documentation for prescribing reasons, and low utilization of microbiological or biomarker tests. Additionally, the incidence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) was 3.79%, with factors such as invasive procedures and longer hospital stays contributing to the occurrence of HAIs.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY & INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2023)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Moe Moe Thandar, Sadatoshi Matsuoka, Obaidur Rahman, Erika Ota, Toshiaki Baba
Summary: This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness of ICTs in reducing HCAIs in hospitals and other healthcare settings, by conducting a comprehensive literature search and meta-analysis to determine their impact on patients and healthcare professionals, while also considering cost factors.
Correction
Medicine, General & Internal
Mainul Haque
Summary: Hospital-acquired infections are common and pose significant risks to patients' health in inpatient settings. A 1-day point-prevalence survey conducted by CDC investigators revealed the burden and types of healthcare-associated infections in 183 hospitals across 10 geographically diverse states.
NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Reuben Kiggundu, Rachel Wittenauer, J. P. Waswa, Hilma N. Nakambale, Freddy Eric Kitutu, Marion Murungi, Neville Okuna, Seru Morries, Lynn Lieberman Lawry, Mohan P. Joshi, Andy Stergachis, Niranjan Konduri
Summary: This study assessed antibiotic use in hospitals in Uganda using the standardized point prevalence survey methodology recommended by the World Health Organization. The findings revealed gaps in antibiotic usage, such as low compliance with clinical guidelines and excessive use of watch-classified antibiotics. The results of this study are important benchmarks for improving antimicrobial stewardship in Uganda and guiding future evaluations.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Yuanshuo Ma, Yongchen Wang, Yu Shi, Lei Shi, Licheng Wang, Zhe Li, Guoqiang Li, Yafeng Zhang, Lihua Fan, Xin Ni
Summary: The study found that the incidence of workplace violence among healthcare workers in county-level hospitals in China is relatively high, with 67.28% experiencing violence in the past 12 months. Hospital violence was negatively related to positive coping, but positively related to negative coping and anxiety. Positive and negative coping played a mediating role in the impact of hospital violence on healthcare workers' anxiety.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Xiaoxia Li, Wanni Cai, Yan Song, Jianbang Kang, Xiaopeng Ji, Fangying Tian, Donghong Yin, Shuyun Wang, Qian Guo, Junli Song, Nan Shi, Jinju Duan
Summary: This study conducted the first point prevalence survey in Shanxi Province, China to determine the prevalence of antimicrobial use and healthcare-associated infections. The results showed a relatively low prevalence of antimicrobial use and healthcare-associated infections in Shanxi Province, but identified areas for quality improvement.
JOURNAL OF GLOBAL ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Ivana Cirkovic, Ljiljana Markovic-Denic, Milica Bajcetic, Gorana Dragovac, Zorana Dordevic, Vesna Mioljevic, Danijela Urosevic, Vladimir Nikolic, Aleksa Despotovic, Gordana Krtinic, Violeta Rakic, Ivana Janicijevic, Vesna Suljagic
Summary: Millions of patients acquire healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) every year, putting them at risk for serious complications and prolonged hospitalization. Despite not being in the European Union, Serbia has implemented point prevalence surveys (PPS) as a primary method to monitor HAIs. The results of a survey conducted in November 2017 showed high prevalence of HAIs in the country's healthcare facilities, with intensive care units and urinary tract and surgical site infections being the most common. The current antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates in Serbia are also concerning.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Martina Barchitta, Andrea Maugeri, Maria Clara La Rosa, Claudia La Mastra, Giuseppe Murolo, Antonella Agodi
Summary: This study reported the results of three repeated point prevalence surveys conducted in Sicilian acute care hospitals in Italy from 2016 to 2018, showing no significant trend in the prevalence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) but a significant increase in antibiotic use over the years. Antibiotic abuse may exacerbate the issue of HAIs, highlighting the importance of infection prevention and control measures as well as antibiotic stewardship programs.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Laure Mortgat, Kristien Verdonck, Veronik Hutse, Isabelle Thomas, Cyril Barbezange, Leo Heyndrickx, Natalie Fischer, Bea Vuylsteke, Ines Kabouche, Kevin K. Arien, Isabelle Desombere, Els Duysburgh
Summary: The prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among Belgian hospital healthcare workers in April-December 2020 was slightly higher than the general population but followed a similar trend. 80% of healthcare workers remained seronegative after two waves, justifying their prioritization in the vaccination strategy.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Ying Zhang, Lingyun Tian, Wan Li, Ximao Wen, Hangman Wu, Ruie Gong, Lanman Zeng, Feng Zhou, Zhenru Liu, Ziyuan Tang, Anhua Wu, Xun Huang
Summary: During the COVID-19 outbreak, healthcare-associated ICPs in China were found to have varying levels of mental health problems, influenced by factors such as self-efficacy, type of hospital, geographical location, marital status, length of employment, and personal psychological attributes. Efforts should be made to actively address the mental health issues of ICPs and help them overcome psychological disorders.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Peiyi Li, Yunmei Luo, Xuexin Yu, Elizabeth Mason, Zhi Zeng, Jin Wen, Weimin Li, Mohammad S. Jalali
Summary: This study conducted a cross-sectional survey in Sichuan, China to investigate the readiness and factors influencing healthcare providers' adoption of e-hospital technologies. Results showed that most participants had a positive attitude, with age, familiarity with e-hospitals, and prior online medical practices being associated with readiness to work at e-hospitals.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Brian Godman, Abiodun Egwuenu, Evelyn Wesangula, Natalie Schellack, Aubrey Chichonyi Kalungia, Celda Tiroyakgosi, Joyce Kgatlwane, Julius C. Mwita, Okwen Patrick, Loveline Lum Niba, Adefolarin A. Amu, Racheal Tomilola Oguntade, Mobolaji Eniola Alabi, Nondumiso B. Q. Ncube, Israel Abebrese Sefah, Joseph Acolatse, Robert Incoom, Anastasia Nkatha Guantai, Margaret Oluka, Sylvia Opanga, Ibrahim Chikowe, Felix Khuluza, Francis K. Chiumia, Collins Edward Jana, Francis Kalemeera, Ester Hango, Joseph Fadare, Olayinka O. Ogunleye, Bernard E. Ebruke, Johanna C. Meyer, Amos Massele, Oliver Ombeva Malande, Dan Kibuule, Otridah Kapona, Trust Zaranyika, Mutsa Bwakura-Dangarembizi, Tapiwanashe Kujinga, Zikria Saleem, Amanj Kurdi, Moyad Shahwan, Ammar Abdulrahman Jairoun, Janney Wale, Adrian J. Brink
Summary: All sub-Saharan African countries have developed their National Action Plans (NAPs), but implementation varies. Key challenges include personnel, expertise, capacity, and resources, as well as the lack of focal points and competing demands. Coordinated efforts are needed to address these challenges and reduce AMR.
EXPERT OPINION ON DRUG SAFETY
(2022)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Abdul Haseeb, Hani Saleh Faidah, Saleh Alghamdi, Amal F. Alotaibi, Mahmoud Essam Elrggal, Ahmad J. Mahrous, Safa S. Almarzoky Abuhussain, Najla A. Obaid, Manal Algethamy, Abdullmoin AlQarni, Asim A. Khogeer, Zikria Saleem, Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Sami S. Ashgar, Rozan Mohammad Radwan, Alaa Mutlaq, Nayyra Fatani, Aziz Sheikh
Summary: This systematic review analyzed the dosing regimen of beta-lactams and found that continuous infusion is considered the most appropriate mode of administration to optimize the safety and efficacy of the treatment. The study also highlighted the challenges in appropriate antibiotic therapy due to age-related pathophysiological changes, but suggested that optimizing pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters can support alternative dosing regimens.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Jia Ean Goh, Muhammad Junaid Farrukh, Fazlollah Keshavarzi, Chuan Sheng Yap, Zikria Saleem, Muhammad Salman, Diana Laila Ramatillah, Khang Wen Goh, Long Chiau Ming
Summary: The prevalence, knowledge, and health-related practices of PCOS among women in Klang Valley, Malaysia were investigated. The study found that a significant proportion of respondents had poor knowledge and practice of PCOS. Education level and PCOS history were associated with PCOS knowledge. Married participants and women aged 40-45 showed better practice of PCOS.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Hasan Ejaz, Muhammad Usman Qamar, Kashaf Junaid, Sonia Younas, Zeeshan Taj, Syed Nasir Abbas Bukhari, Abualgasim E. Abdalla, Khalid O. A. Abosalif, Naveed Ahmad, Zikria Saleem, Eman H. M. Salem
Summary: The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex (CRACB) in clinical environments is a significant global concern. These critical pathogens have shown resistance to a broad spectrum of antibacterial drugs, including carbapenems. CRACB isolates displayed resistance to most antibiotics, except tigecycline and colistin.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Abdul Haseeb, Zikria Saleem, Ummara Altaf, Narjis Batool, Brian Godman, Umar Ahsan, Mehreen Ashiq, Mutiba Razzaq, Rabia Hanif, Zill E-Huma, Afreenish Amir, Mohammad Akbar Hossain, Mohamed Raafat, Rozan Mohammad Radwan, Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Sairah Hafeez Kamran
Summary: This study evaluated the impact of positive culture sensitivity reports on the de-escalation of antibiotic therapy for E. coli or Methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). The findings showed that positive culture sensitivity reports helped reduce the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
INFECTION AND DRUG RESISTANCE
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Hamid Saeed, Khubaib Ali, Muhammad Nabeel, Muhammad Fawad Rasool, Muhammad Islam, Furqan Khurshid Hashmi, Amna Saeed, Zikria Saleem
Summary: The study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among pharmacy and non-pharmacy students. The findings showed that most students had positive attitudes towards the vaccine, with pharmacy students demonstrating better knowledge. However, non-pharmacy students expressed hesitancy due to mistrust in the health system.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Zikria Saleem, Abdul Haseeb, Brian Godman, Narjis Batool, Ummara Altaf, Umar Ahsan, Faiz Ullah Khan, Zia Ul Mustafa, Muhammad Umer Nadeem, Muhammad Junaid Farrukh, Muhammad Mugheera, Inaam Ur Rehman, Asma Fareed Khan, Hamid Saeed, Mohammad Akbar Hossain, Mohamed Raafat, Rozan Mohammad Radwan, Muhammad Shahid Iqbal
Summary: This study assessed the patterns of antimicrobial prescribing and the prevalence of COVID-19 among hospitals in Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among 1024 hospitalized patients, 662 (64.64%) received antimicrobials. The most common indications for antimicrobial use were pneumonia (13.3%), central nervous system infections (10.4%), and gastrointestinal indications (10.4%). The study revealed high antimicrobial use in Pakistani hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for multifaceted interventions to enhance rational antimicrobial prescribing, especially for surgical prophylaxis.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Abdul Haseeb, Zikria Saleem, Aseel Fayk Maqadmi, Roaa Abdulrahman Allehyani, Ahmad J. Mahrous, Mahmoud E. Elrggal, Sairah Hafeez Kamran, Manal AlGethamy, Asem Saleh Naji, Abdullmoin AlQarni, Khalid W. Alhariqi, Muhammad Arslan Khan, Kiran Ibrahim, Fahad Raees, Aisha Azmat, Aislinn Cook, Stephen M. Campbell, Giulia Lorenzetti, Johanna C. Meyer, Brian Godman, Catrin E. Moore
Summary: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global concern, leading to increased costs, morbidity, and mortality. National action plans (NAPs) are being implemented to decrease AMR rates and improve antimicrobial prescribing practices. In the Middle East, high rates of AMR have been observed and antibiotic point prevalence surveys (PPS) have provided insights into antimicrobial consumption trends and the need for antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). This study examined hospital consumption trends and documented ASPs in the region.
Editorial Material
Infectious Diseases
Zikria Saleem, Tiyani Milta Sono, Brian Godman
EXPERT REVIEW OF ANTI-INFECTIVE THERAPY
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Alia Batool, Asma Yaqoob, Zahid Anwar, Lovleen Tina Joshi, Ramsha Batool, Durreshahwar Lone, Zikria Saleem, Qasim Ahmed, Yousef A. Bin Jardn, Mohammed Bourhia, Muhammad Usman Qamar
Summary: This study investigated the outbreak of Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), including mortality, antimicrobial resistance, and associated risk factors. The findings revealed that the outbreak of NDM-producing BCC resulted in increased neonatal mortality.
FUTURE MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Audrey Chigome, Nishana Ramdas, Phumzile Skosana, Aislinn Cook, Natalie Schellack, Stephen Campbell, Giulia Lorenzetti, Zikria Saleem, Brian Godman, Johanna C. Meyer
Summary: There are concerns regarding the prescribing of antibiotics in primary care settings in South Africa, both public and private. These concerns need to be addressed to combat rising antimicrobial resistance rates. Published studies indicate a high prescription rate of antibiotics for patients with acute respiratory infections, with varying levels of adherence to prescribing guidelines. The majority of prescribed antibiotics belong to the "Access" group rather than the "Watch" group, which is intended to limit antimicrobial resistance. Inappropriate prescribing in primary care is influenced by limited knowledge about antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance, and antimicrobial stewardship programs among prescribers and patients. Future recommendations include improving education, regularly monitoring prescribing practices, and using patient-friendly language during discussions about appropriate antibiotic use.
Review
Infectious Diseases
Abdul Haseeb, Zikria Saleem, Hani Saleh Faidah, Abdullah A. Saati, Abdullmoin Alqarni, Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Saleh Alghamdi, Mahmoud E. Elrggal, Manal Algethamy, Rozan Mohammad Radwan, Ahmad Jamal Mahrous, Safa S. Almarzoky Abuhussain, Sarah M. Khayyat, Kiran Ibrahim, Brian Godman, Aziz Sheikh, Andreas A. Von Ameln-Mayerhofer
Summary: The Hajj pilgrimage is a global event that can lead to the spread of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. Despite efforts to prevent and treat infectious diseases, the prevalence of such diseases among pilgrims remains high. The irrational use of antimicrobials, lack of infection prevention practices, and limited healthcare access contribute to the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Zikria Saleem, Abdul Haseeb, Safa S. Almarzoky Abuhussain, Catrin E. E. Moore, Sairah Hafeez Kamran, Muhammad Usman Qamar, Aisha Azmat, Giuseppe Pichierri, Fahad Raees, Shahzad Asghar, Amna Saeed, Afreenish Amir, Furqan Khurshid Hashmi, Johanna C. C. Meyer, Israel Abebrese Sefah, Inaam Ur Rehman, Muhammad Umer Nadeem, Brian Godman
Summary: This study aimed to monitor the susceptibility pattern of microbes in Pakistan and found that the current antimicrobial options are severely restricted due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. Urgent actions, including initiating antimicrobial stewardship programs, are needed to enhance prudent prescribing of antibiotics.
MEDICINA-LITHUANIA
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Ummara Altaf, Zikria Saleem, Muhammad Furqan Akhtar, Waleed Mohammad Altowayan, Abdulmajeed A. Alqasoumi, Mohammed Salem Alshammari, Abdul Haseeb, Fahad Raees, Mohammad Tarique Imam, Narjis Batool, Muhammad Masoom Akhtar, Brian Godman
Summary: Culture sensitivity reports were used in a teaching hospital in Pakistan to optimize antibiotic prescribing. The adjustment of empiric therapy based on the reports led to a reduction in antibiotic utilization and costs, as well as improved treatment selection. The study highlights the importance of implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs and hospital antibiotic guidelines to minimize unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
MEDICINA-LITHUANIA
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Saadia Ambreen, Numrah Safdar, Aamer Ikram, Mirza Zeeshan Iqbal Baig, Ayesha Farooq, Afreenish Amir, Asim Saeed, Farah Sabih, Qadeer Ahsan, Alia Zafar, Palitha Gunarathna Mahipala, Zikria Saleem, Muhammad Salman
Summary: This study aimed to assess current patterns of antibiotic use in leading hospitals of Pakistan, with the collected information supporting policy-making and interventions to improve antibiotic prescription and use. A point prevalence survey was conducted with data abstracted from patient medical records from 14 tertiary care hospitals. The results showed an average prevalence of 75% antibiotic use among surveyed patients, with third-generation cephalosporin being the most commonly prescribed class. Surgical prophylaxis was the most common indication for antibiotic use. Notably, 61.9% of antimicrobials had no guidelines or policies in place. The findings emphasize the urgent need to review excessive use of empiric antimicrobials and surgical prophylaxis, and implement programs such as antibiotic guidelines and antimicrobial stewardship activities.
MEDICINA-LITHUANIA
(2023)
